Deep in the Arctic Circle, the snow-clad tundra and twinkling peaks that surround Kittilä make it a magical spot for winter sports. But with husky rides, reindeer round-ups, ice fishing and the chance to see the Northern Lights all part of the package, the Finnish region is brilliant for non-skiers too.
Winter adventures
Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding or trying your hand at snowmobiling, there’s no shortage of winter sports to choose from during a holiday to Kittilä from Glasgow Airport. The resort of Levi, 531m above sea level at the peak of the Levi Fell, is where most of the action happens courtesy of its 43 slopes, including three black runs. Slopes are open from mid-October until May and there’s also a whopping 886km snowmobile route for those in need of an adrenaline rush.
Animal encounters
Whether you’re doing the hard work or letting someone else take the reins, few things are more exhilarating than being borne through the snow by a yapping pack of huskies. Hire yours at the Levi Huskypark or join a snowy safari that lets you get close to some of the wilder locals, including reindeer. Also worth a visit is nearby Wolverine Fell, where along with husky rides, you can try your hand at ice fishing, snowshoeing and even a reindeer round-up.
Chasing the Northern Lights
Just 170km north of the Arctic Circle, Kittilä’s northerly latitude and long dark winters make it a prime spot for spotting the Aurora Borealis, or, as the Scots would have it, the Merry Dancers. Shimmering rose pink, crimson, indigo and emerald, the lights are created when charged particles collide with the Earth’s atmosphere to gorgeous effect. Although getting a glimpse of the Northern Lights isn’t guaranteed, Lapland – and Kittilä in particular – is one of the best places to try.